What did you think of this episode?

During this third episode of the Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer series, you’ll learn How to Work Smart in Your Writing Career.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in.

My industry expert is DiAnn Mills. DiAnn is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won two Christy Awards, Golden Scroll, and Selah awards, and was a finalist in the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn teaches writing all over the country.

Here are today's 11 Ways to Work Smart in Your Writing Career 

You also get a bonus download - 11 More Ways to Work Smart in Your Writing Career 

Links

You can find out more about … in our show notes as well.

- diannmills.com

- facebook.com/diannmills

- x.com/diannmills

- diannmills.com/articles

- bookbub.com/authors/diann-mills

- instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are you prepared to take the podcasting world by storm? Today’s guest shares tips to help you become the guest that podcasters can’t wait to interview. 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn how to Be A Writer Podcasters Love to Interview.

My industry expert is… Shelly Snead. She is a writer, an award-winning blogger, and host of UnPerfect, a podcast for Christian Women who desire to fully live the lives they’ve been dealt. She’s been miraculously married for 29 years and is “mom” to four kids, a beautiful daughter-in-law, and a spoiled mutt she rescued in a weak moment.

How to Be A Writer Podcasters Love to Interview

Talking Points:

1.    What is the first step a writer should take before requesting an interview on a specific podcast?

a.    Study the Podcast you are asking to be interviewed for.  

b.    (Discussion of how a writer can know if they are a good fit for a podcast).

2.     How should a writer adjust their mindset when preparing for a podcast interview?

a.    Focus on serving rather than promoting. 

b.    (most important tip - requires a mindset shift, discussion of why it’s not really about your “book”)

3.     How can a writer assist the podcast host in preparing for the interview?

a.    Provide a list of suggested questions for your topic or a subtopic of your book. 

b.    (discussion of a press release, suggested topics, even ways that fiction writers can land interviews)

Downloadable Giveaway - https://shellysnead.com/yourbestwritinglife/

 You can find out more about Shelly in our show notes.

www.shellysnead.com (website)

https://shellysnead.substack.com/subscribe 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

As a Christian writer, strong listening skills can enhance readers' enjoyment. 

Stay tuned. Today’s guest will share three ways to boost your writing-related listening skills.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. 

During this part two episode of Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer series, you’ll learn How Listening Makes Us Better Writers.

My industry expert is DiAnn Mills. DiAnn is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won two Christy Awards, Golden Scroll, and Selah awards, and was a finalist in the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn teaches writing all over the country.

Three ways to increase your writerly listening skills:

1. Listen with your whole body and mind. Shut out the rest of the world and concentrate on the audible voice.

2. Listen with empathy. Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes. What differences will this audible contribution make in your writing?

3. Listen with purpose. A writer aims to put themselves aside and write as the character.

Download DiAnn's How Listening Makes Us Better Writers PDF

You can find out more about DiAnn Mills in our show notes.

 - diannmills.com

 - facebook.com/diannmills

 - x.com/diannmills

 - diannmills.com/articles

 - bookbub.com/authors/diann-mills

 - instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Boost book sales through Amazon. In this encore episode, Linda Goldfarb and Vincent B. Davis II share what you need to know to increase sales as a multibook author.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Vincent B. Davis II. Vincent is an author, entrepreneur, and veteran.  He is a graduate of East Tennessee State University and has served in the United States Army since 2014. He's the author of eight books, four of which have become international bestsellers. When he's not researching or writing his next book, you can find him watching Carolina Panthers football or playing with his rescued mutt, Buddy.

The questions Linda and Vincent cover in today's episode are:

1. How to optimize your front and back matter.

2. Getting beyond Option Paralysis

3.  Number one way to sell more books R & R

4. The statistical benefit of writing more books.

5. Tools outside Amazon to augment Amazon sales.

6.  Traffic + Conversion = $$$

LINKS
Vincent B. Davis II
Amazon Strategies for Advanced Writers PDF download
Pickfu.com
Ask Vincent about coaching - include YBWL in the subject line and request $100 off.  email [email protected] 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Need help with Amazon optimization? Amazon marketing expert Vincent B. Davis II shares what you need to succeed in this encore episode as a Christian writer.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Vincent B. Davis II. Vincent is an author, entrepreneur, and veteran. He graduated from East Tennessee State University and has served in the United States Army since 2014. He's the author of eight books, four of which have become international bestsellers. When he's not researching or writing his next book, you can find him watching Carolina Panthers football or playing with his rescued mutt, Buddy.

The questions Linda and Vincent cover in today's encore episode are:

1.     Why choose to sell exclusively on Amazon? 

2.     What are two considerations we must know about Amazon marketing? 

3.     What milestones should authors try to hit after launching a book on Amazon?  

4.     How do authors engage with Amazon algorithms to sell books? 

5.     What types of books typically succeed on Amazon with your marketing tactics?

 LINKS
Vincent B. Davis II
Amazon Strategies for Beginning Writers PDF download
Ask Vincent about coaching - include YBWL in the subject line and request $100 off.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

In today’s encore episode, you will learn how to write more deeply while giving your reader a shorter study time. 

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Kathy Howard. Kathy is a treasure hunter. She hunts for the creamiest chocolate and richest coffee. She searches for cherished stories of faith that still impact hearts. And, she digs deep into God’s Word, mining His eternal truths for herself and to share with others. With more than 30 years of experience, Kathy has taught in dozens of states, internationally, and in various venues, including multi-church conferences and large online events. 

She has a Master's degree in Christian Education and a certificate in Women’s Ministry from the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary. She is the author of 12 books, including five Bible studies and the Deep Rooted devotional series. She also serves on the LifeWay Women’s Ministry Training Team. Kathy and her husband live near family in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. They have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Kathy provides free discipleship resources and blogs regularly at www.KathyHoward.org.

Discover what a hybrid devotional study is and how you can begin writing meaty devotionals without breaking the time bank.

LINKS
Kathy Howard
How to Write a Deep Devotional PDF free download
Kathy Howard's Books

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

What you don't know about Public Relations as writers could be crushing your reputation. Linda Goldfarb and Julie Bonn Blank share top PR tips in today's encore episode.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Julie Bonn Blank. When Julie is not writing, she designs websites, works at ARMS/Abuse Recovery Ministry Services, and loves to walk the beach. She is a Certified Domestic Abuse Advocate in Oregon and an expert in domestic violence. She facilitates the Washington County Survivor Voices Committee and provides training in abuse and on many marketing and writing topics. She also facilitates an online encouragement, prayer, and critique group, North Coast Christian Writers.

PR Secrets and Slam Dunks for Writers

1. What exactly is Public Relations
2. At what level of writing should one consider PR
3. What is more valuable online or printable PR
   1. Traditional PR – advertising, direct mail, 7 times before people move on it
   2. Online PR – reviews, ads, reputation management – 
   3. Events, Webinars, (promo spread sheet)
4. budget-sensitive tips writers can take for a DIY form of PR
   1. Work with your marketing team
   2. Webinars
   3. Haro – help a reporter out – free email list – sign up as an expert
   4. Podcasts – for authors - podcastguests.com 
   5. News Media outlets – local news – books – press release – connect with reports (send thank you cards)
   6. Variety of topics – find celebrities – send your book to them – thank-you card – contactanycelebrity.com 

Partnerships – work too (nonprofits $$ or % goes to them)

1. What is your most important PR tip for writers.
   1. Not sales necessarily – connections
   2. Email list most important – storyorigin.com booksweeps.com – active audience 
   3. Speaking opportunities – build them - 

LINKS
Julie Bonn Blank
Abuse Recovery Ministries
Julie's Freebie - A short 2-story ebook, “Innocent Journeys"
Innocent Lives: Guardians of Grace Book 1
Innocent Voices: Guardians of Grace Book 2

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Would you like your novel to impact lives like an award-winning movie? 

In today's encore episode, Deborah Raney shares her top movie techniques to help you do that!

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this encore episode, you’ll learn how to write your book with a movie in mind.

Linda's industry expert is Deborah Raney - Deb’s first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired an award-winning film from World Wide Pictures. Deborah teaches at writers’ conferences across the country, including Blue Ridge, and she served on the executive board of the 2500-member American Christian Fiction Writers organization for almost 18 years. Deb has written over forty books for imprints of Random House, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, and others and is thoroughly enjoying her career as a novelist. However, her first and most cherished calling is wife, mom, and “Mimi.” Native Kansans, Deb and her husband are transplants to Southeast Missouri, where seven of their thirteen grandkids live.

Deborah shares:

1. The premise of her book, A Vow to Cherish, and how it became an award-winning movie! 
2. What did having a movie made from your novel teach you about writing?
3. Share some movie techniques to help us bring our novels to life.
4. How does writing cinematically teach us to Show, don’t tell?

LINKS
Deborah Raney
How to Bring Life to Your Novel by Writing Cinematically the book
More of Deborah Raney's Books

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Have you ever felt guilty about not meeting your writing goals or wondered if they need a check-up? 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn what to do When Writing Goals Need a Re-Set.

My industry expert is…Penny Reeve. 

Penny is a writer, children’s literature scholar, and speaker. She’s also the award-winning Australian author of more than 25 books for children. Writing as Penny Reeve, Penny Jaye, and Ella Shine, she writes picture books, junior fiction, children’s Bible studies, and young adult fiction. She is an experienced writing teacher with a particular interest in equipping Christian children’s writers. Learn more about Penny at www.pennyreeve.com

·      Goals are important for writers, but how do we know if our goals need a check-up?

·      How to start a writing goal re-set: revisit the old and consider the new.

·      Be real about the rest of your life and then choose one to add, pause, delete, or restructure your writing goals.

Listener giveaway –Penny is generously offering a downloadable Writing Goals Check-Up! A resource specifically designed to help writers – just like you – to work and conduct a goals check-up of your own. 

Check out Penny’s novel, Out of the Cages, a novel that took eleven years and eleven rejections before it found its way to publication and won awards, proof that re-setting goals can be a useful strategy for writers playing the long game. 

·      www.pennyreeve.com 

o   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennyreevethepennydrops 

o   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennyreevethepennydrops/

o   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PennyReeveauthor 

Book links for Penny’s 3 author names: 

o   Penny Reeve: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Penny-Reeve/author/B0034NJ9D4 

o   Penny Jaye: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Penny-Jaye/author/B07NCXW6GQ 

o   Ella Shine: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ella-Shine/author/B08KCTYJYF 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

When you prioritize these four goals, you will maximize your monthly output! Today’s guest offers solutions to get you started. 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn Four Goals You Should Prioritize to Maximize Your Monthly Writing.

My industry expert is…Tina Yeager - Award-winning author, speaker, and life coach Tina Yeager hosts the Flourish-Meant Podcast and Flourish Today radio show on Christian Mix 106 and publishes Inkspirations Online, a weekly writers’ devotional. She has been licensed as a counselor since 2005. For holistic emotional wellness coaching, prayer-led creative journey mapping, purpose coaching, or event speaking, contact her at [email protected].  

Alright, let’s head into our content for today… Four Goals We Should Prioritize to Maximize Our Month.

For your personal reset this month, here are four goals to restore your personal growth strategy and begin your journey to the best year ever. 

1. Start each day by praying through a passage of scripture with thankfulness and worship, meditating upon a specific name of God. 

2. Plan your intake. Nourish your brain, body, and spirit by what you choose to put into them. Set your food and beverages up before you get hungry.

3. Draft policy statements for your interactions with others. Set standards for how you will respond to and treat people to act as guard rails. 

4. Prayerfully identify and execute short-term SMART goals. The Lord might reveal a long-range vision. If so, make sure all your short-term monthly goals support it. 

Take a step in the next 24 hrs that commits you to the first objective of this month’s goal.

LINKS

If you're a writer, subscribe to Inkspirations Online (devotional publication by writers for writers): https://www.inkspirationsonline.com/ 

Manage stress and anxiety in 10 minutes a day with the course presented by 15 experts, Subdue Stress and Anxiety https://divineencouragement.onlinecoursehost.com/courses

Connect with Tina at:

Facebook Linked In  Instagram  YouTube  Pinterest  Goodreads

If you are ready to get

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast